Leica Camera and Formula 1 have introduced the Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition under a new licensing partnership, pairing the camera’s established imaging technology with carbon-fibre controls, racing-inspired finishes and an exclusive photographic look. Based on the Leica Q3 43, the special edition retains its 43mm lens and full-frame sensor, focusing changes on its design and image rendering.
Formula 1 presenter Ariana Bravo and 2009 FIA Formula 1 Drivers’ World Champion Jenson Button presented the collaboration during an unveiling at the Leica Store and Leica Gallery in Los Angeles. The event also featured 26 motorsport photographs by Italian photographer Callo Albanese, who specialises in Formula 1 and motorsport photography.
Carbon-fibre detailing extends to the camera controls
Genuine carbon fibre has been integrated into several components that photographers regularly handle, including a wireless charging handgrip with a carbon-fibre shell, a matching thumb rest in the same finish and a soft-release button detailed with a carbon inlay and red rim. According to Leica, the carbon-fibre parts were manufactured and tested exclusively in Germany. While carbon fibre is not traditionally used in Leica cameras, it is widely associated with motor racing because of its combination of low weight and rigidity.
Across the camera body, a black, non-slip Microvelour covering provides a texture modelled on racing steering wheels. Red accents take inspiration from the colour-coded controls used by racing drivers, appearing on the soft-release button and one of the two function buttons on the thumb rest.
Formula 1 branding appears on the camera’s top plate and lens cap. The set includes a rope carrying strap bearing both brands’ logos, designed to complement the carbon-fibre components, alongside custom packaging with a red inlay.
Full-frame sensor and 43mm APO-Summicron lens
The Leica Q3 43 provides the technical foundation for the special edition, including its APO-Summicron 43 f/2 ASPH. lens. Leica describes the 43mm focal length as offering an angle of view that closely resembles natural human vision, which the company considers beneficial for photography in the Formula 1 paddock and around the racetrack, where atmosphere and proximity are important to capturing a scene.
The camera’s full-frame BSI CMOS sensor uses Triple Resolution Technology, allowing photographers to capture images at 60, 36 or 18 megapixels. These selectable resolutions are supported by a fast hybrid autofocus system and video recording capabilities carried over from the standard Q3 43.
Exclusive Formula 1 image look and availability
Alongside the exterior changes, Leica has developed an exclusive ‘Formula 1’ photographic look for the camera. Designed to reproduce the atmosphere of motorsport, the setting applies higher contrast and richer colour saturation to images.
Available through the Leica FOTOS App, the look can be applied while taking photographs. Photographers can preview the effect directly in the camera’s viewfinder before capturing an image, allowing them to assess the rendering without waiting until post-processing. The app also supports transferring photographs and videos to mobile devices.
The Leica Q3 43 Formula 1 Edition is available from 21 October 2026 through all Leica Stores, the Leica Online Store and specialist retailers, with a recommended retail price of S$12,590 including GST. The camera is compatible with Leica Q3 and Q3 43 photography accessories.
